Jain communities

The Jain community, or Jains, are the followers of Jainism, an ancient Indian religion. While constituting a small minority in India (approximately 0.4% of the population), the community is notable as one of the most literate and wealthy groups in the country. Scholars have extensively studied the community's distinct socio-economic profile, linking it to the rigorous application of core ethical principles, particularly Ahimsa (non-violence) and Aparigraha (non-attachment), in daily life.

The Jain community, known as the sangha, is traditionally described as a "four-fold order" (chaturvidha sangha), consisting of muni (male monastics), aryika (female monastics), śrāvaka (laymen), and śrāvikā (laywomen). The lay community, through an ethical framework known as the "small vows" (anuvratas), has historically engaged in professions like trade, banking, and finance, while also maintaining a strong, documented tradition of philanthropy and artistic patronage.

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